If you’re interested in finding out what mineral sunscreen is and why it’s suitable for sensitive and demanding skin, as well as being environmentally friendly, then this is for you. As well as telling you all about mineral sunscreens, we’ll introduce you to the product that will become your favorite sunscreen, and explain all the reasons why it stands out from other types of sunscreen.
What is mineral sunscreen?
Sunscreen is considered the most important product for preventing premature aging of the skin and keeping it healthy. In addition, there are increasingly effective formulations to protect the skin from ultraviolet radiation and its many consequences, such as the increase in expression lines, spots, and alterations in the DNA of epithelial cells. One example is mineral sunscreen. But what exactly is this type of sunscreen?
Mineral sunscreen is based on a combination of titanium dioxide and zinc oxide particles that form a protective film on the skin and block radiation before it penetrates. Therefore, it is a filter that does not need time to be absorbed and offers protection from the sun from the moment it is applied. In addition, it is suitable for all skin types and is usually very stable against radiation.
Benefits of mineral sunscreen
Mineral sunscreen, or physical filter, offers multiple advantages for skin care and protection.
- Maximum tolerance. Since they do not penetrate the skin, these sunscreens are very suitable for use on sensitive skin, rosacea, acne, or eczema, as they rarely cause side effects.
- Immediate and stable protection. This type of filter effectively blocks UVA and UVB radiation, as well as infrared and blue light, without breaking down when exposed to the sun.
- Environmental health. Mineral sunscreens are considered safe for the marine ecosystem, especially if they use non-nano particles.
- Protection against visible light. Some include mineral pigments that also mitigate the effects of visible blue light, such as spots and aging.
Differences between mineral and chemical filters
Sunscreens are mainly divided into two categories: chemical (or synthetic) filters and mineral (or physical) filters.
The main difference between them is in how they protect the skin from UV rays. While mineral filters act as a physical barrier that reflects solar radiation like a mirror, chemical filters absorb radiation and convert it into heat.
In this sense, mineral filters rest on the surface of the skin and provide an immediate physical barrier that reflects the sun’s rays. And although some physical sunscreens can cause what is known as the “mask effect” due to their denser formulations, recent advances have improved this finish and achieved a much lighter and more comfortable texture. In addition, mineral sunscreen has the advantage that, as it does not penetrate the skin, it does not cause adverse effects or incompatibilities with sensitive skin or conditions such as rosacea.
On the other hand, chemical filters penetrate the skin, absorb radiation, and dissipate it in the form of non-aggressive radiation. In this case, the textures are usually lighter and easier to apply, but they can degrade in the sun and, in some people, can cause irritation or sensitivity.
In short, although both types of sunscreen have their own characteristics, both categories are effective in protecting the skin from solar radiation, provided they are broad spectrum and applied correctly.
Toskani mineral sunscreen: innovation and science
At Toskani, we have taken sun protection to another level with the Sun Shiel‑D Mineral Stick SPF 50+, a mineral sunscreen specially designed for delicate areas such as scars, tattoos, blemishes, lips, and the eye contour.
This compact stick, which contains only physical filters such as titanium dioxide and zinc oxide, offers some very interesting advantages:
- High tolerance. It is an ideal sunscreen for reactive skin that is intolerant to chemical components.
- Very high protection. Its SPF 50+ offers broad spectrum protection against UVA, UVB, infrared, and blue light.
- Natural finish. Its medium tone adapts to the skin without leaving white residue and helps to even out skin tone and correct imperfections.
- Precise and practical format. The stick format makes application hygienic and easy. It is also perfect for carrying in your bag.
- Stimulates vitamin D. Another benefit of this sunscreen is that it allows beneficial light for natural vitamin D synthesis while protecting the skin.
- Non-comedogenic. It is a water-resistant and non-comedogenic sunscreen, so it protects the skin without clogging pores.
With Sun Shield-D Stick, Toskani offers you smart, effective protection that is gentle on all skin types, including the most sensitive.